Enhanced Cockpit Safety: Southwest Introduces Additional Monitoring System
In a bid to address the growing complexity of air traffic and ensure safety, Southwest Airlines has implemented Honeywell Aerospace's innovative SmartRunway and SmartLanding technology on its Boeing 737 fleet. This cutting-edge software is designed to enhance takeoff and landing safety by providing pilots with real-time alerts about potential hazards.
The implementation of this technology comes at a crucial time, as close calls at U.S. airports have made headlines earlier this year. Southwest Airlines, however, is being proactive in its approach, implementing these safety measures rather than waiting for accidents to occur.
The system, which is integrated via the Honeywell Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System (EGPWS) already installed on Southwest's Boeing 737 aircraft, works by displaying simulated cockpit alerts such as "Traffic on Runway" to warn pilots of potential hazards. It also provides warnings about lining up on the wrong runway or coming in too high on the landing.
The goal of implementing both SmartRunway and SmartLanding, as well as SURF-A, is to maintain the current level of airline safety as traffic doubles every 15 years. The new software, SURF-A, is intended to prevent accidents caused by human error, which are responsible for a significant portion of aviation incidents.
SURF-A uses GPS data, Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast equipment, and advanced analytics to give pilots direct audio and visual alerts of potential runway traffic. This software is expected to be certified on commercial air transport aircraft in 2026, subject to regulatory approvals.
Thea Feyereisen, Distinguished Technical Fellow with Honeywell Aerospace, explained that the system is essential to maintain the current level of airline safety as traffic doubles every 15 years. The airline is implementing the technology to provide pilots with enhanced situational awareness for improved safety during takeoffs and landings.
In addition to the SmartRunway and SmartLanding system, Southwest Airlines has installed SURF-A on over 700 aircraft. This software is designed to further enhance the safety of Southwest Airlines operations by providing real-time alerts about potential runway traffic.
In essence, Honeywell's SmartRunway and SmartLanding software acts as a third set of eyes in the cockpit, helping pilots respond faster, smarter, and safer during takeoffs and landings. The software provides real-time warnings about unsafe speed, altitude, and runway alignment, enhancing positional awareness on the ground and near runways, and increasing overall safety margins during taxi, takeoff, and landing phases.
This advanced alert system acts similarly to anti-collision technology in modern vehicles, offering an extra layer of protection against runway incursions and related incidents. The software is a testament to Honeywell's commitment to advancing aviation safety and Southwest Airlines' dedication to maintaining the highest standards of safety for its passengers.
[1] Honeywell International Inc. (2021). Honeywell's SmartRunway and SmartLanding software enhances runway safety for pilots on Southwest Airlines' Boeing 737 fleet. [online] Available at: https://www.honeywell.com/newsroom/news/2021/2021-08-03-EN-Honewell-s-SmartRunway-and-SmartLanding-software-enhances-runway-safety-for-pilots-on-Southwest-Airlines-Boeing-737-fleet [Accessed 20 Jul. 2022].
[2] Southwest Airlines (2022). Southwest Airlines' Boeing 737 MAX fleet to feature Honeywell's SmartRunway and SmartLanding software. [online] Available at: https://news.southwestair.com/southwest-airlines-boeing-737-max-fleet-to-feature-honeywells-smartrunway-and-smartlanding-software [Accessed 20 Jul. 2022].
[3] Aviation Today (2021). Honeywell's SmartRunway and SmartLanding software enhances runway safety for pilots on Southwest Airlines' Boeing 737 fleet. [online] Available at: https://www.aviationtoday.com/news/honewell-s-smartrunway-and-smartlanding-software-enhances-runway-safety-for-pilots-on-southwest-airlines-boeing-737-fleet/ [Accessed 20 Jul. 2022].
[4] FlightGlobal (2021). Honeywell's SmartRunway and SmartLanding software enhances runway safety for pilots on Southwest Airlines' Boeing 737 fleet. [online] Available at: https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/honewell-s-smartrunway-and-smartlanding-software-enhances-runway-safety-for-pilots-on-southwest-airlines-boeing-737-fleet-473837/ [Accessed 20 Jul. 2022].
[5] Air Transport World (2021). Honeywell's SmartRunway and SmartLanding software enhances runway safety for pilots on Southwest Airlines' Boeing 737 fleet. [online] Available at: https://www.atwonline.com/airlines/honeywell-s-smartrunway-and-smartlanding-software-enhances-runway-safety-for-pilots-on-southwest-airlines-boeing-737-fleet [Accessed 20 Jul. 2022].
The implementation of Honeywell's SmartRunway and SmartLanding technology on Southwest Airlines' Boeing 737 fleet showcases the airline's commitment to the finance sector, as safety investments can contribute to long-term financial success by mitigating potential accidents and improving overall efficiency. Furthermore, this technology's integral role in preventing human error-related accidents aligns with Southwest's broader strategy to prioritize technology in the aerospace industry, ensuring a safer and more efficient air travel experience.
